What is a common cause of uneven tire wear?

Uneven tire wear is commonly caused by improper inflation pressure or misalignment of the wheels. When the tire pressure is not within the manufacturer-recommended range, it can lead to uneven contact with the road surface, resulting in certain parts of the tire wearing down faster than others. For example, over-inflated tires tend to wear more in the center, while under-inflated tires can wear down more on the edges.

Misalignment of the wheels also significantly contributes to uneven tire wear. When the angles of the wheels are incorrect, tires can drag against the road instead of rolling smoothly, leading to excessive wear on one side of the tire. Regular maintenance checks on both tire pressure and wheel alignment are essential to prevent these issues, ensuring even tire wear and extending the lifespan of the tires.

While overuse of brakes, inadequate engine oil, and old tires can affect vehicle performance and safety, they are not primary contributors to uneven tire wear. Overuse of brakes may lead to wear on brake components rather than tires, inadequately maintained engine oil impacts engine health rather than tire condition, and while old tires can compromise road grip and overall safety, the wear pattern is generally a result of other factors like tire pressure and alignment.